Sin # 5: Flat Wordsmithing We've all heard the phrase, 'The writing is flat.' The question is, what does that really mean? Flat writing is where the prose lies dead on the page. Descriptions, characters and stakes are conveyed in such a bland manner that the reader ceases to care. Either the … [Read more...] about Seven Deadly Sins for Novel Writing: Sin V
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The Seven Deadly Sins of Novel Writing Part III
Sin # 3: Missing the Mark on Voice & POV Voice is one of the most elusive aspects of writing. If you struggle with it, you are not alone. Just understanding what it is can be a challenge. When a writer speaks of voice, do they mean the way a character talks, the way the MC comes across to … [Read more...] about The Seven Deadly Sins of Novel Writing Part III
Seven Deadly Sins of Novel Writing, Part II
Sin # 2: Counterfeit Characters The most brilliant plot is nothing without the right characters. The writer's job is to create unique, emotionally charged characters that are strong enough to drive the story. The characters we choose can make or break a novel, and a single misstep can turn a … [Read more...] about Seven Deadly Sins of Novel Writing, Part II
Creating Effective Atmosphere: FALL
As writers, we think carefully on the setting we use for our stories. The where and when of each scene is not only an anchor for both story and characters, it provides readers with valuable information. Settings should be chosen to enhance the events taking place and create tension. If characters … [Read more...] about Creating Effective Atmosphere: FALL
Introducing…the Color, Texture, and Shape Thesaurus
I think most writers understand that the goal of sensory description is to convey a specific image to the reader in a unique way. A good story alone isn't enough, nor is having strong characters. Something needs to bring them to life, and that thing is sensory description. Description is all … [Read more...] about Introducing…the Color, Texture, and Shape Thesaurus
Clichés…The Poisoned Apple of Description
It's been awhile since we talked about clichés, so I thought I'd look at the temptation aspect of using them and why writers are drawn to them when faced with tough description choices. The way I see it, there are four main reasons to reach for the Poisoned Apple and chow down on it: 1) … [Read more...] about Clichés…The Poisoned Apple of Description
Talk Amongst Yourselves: Realistic Dialogue
Saturday was Date Night (woohoo!) and while we were out, I realized a few things. First, I recognized that while going out to eat pre-baby was merely fun, it's now necessary to my sanity. Secondly, as nice as it was to eat someone else's cooking, having a real conversation with another adult was … [Read more...] about Talk Amongst Yourselves: Realistic Dialogue
Pacing Potholes: Common Hazards that Slow Forward Motion
Pacing is a difficult thing to master. Like driving a car, there are many things we need to be on top of to keep our story on the road. Are we glancing out the window enough to be aware of the setting around us? Do we have a destination in mind, or is our plot taking the scenic route? Did we … [Read more...] about Pacing Potholes: Common Hazards that Slow Forward Motion
Techniques For Atmosphere and Mood Building In Fiction
I thought today I'd take a quick look at how setting description can transcend to convey atmosphere through the deft manipulation of the five senses. First off, what is Atmosphere? Atmosphere is the mood created through the deliberate description of setting. Depending on the emotion you wish … [Read more...] about Techniques For Atmosphere and Mood Building In Fiction
Introducing Sensory Saturday…Meet the Setting Thesaurus!
Many elements go into creating a successful novel, but one of the most important is Setting. For a reader to relate to the current action, they need a physical anchor to tie the characters to. It can be difficult, finding the right words to convey a sense of place. The right description can create a … [Read more...] about Introducing Sensory Saturday…Meet the Setting Thesaurus!
Point of View, Part Deux: Which To Use
Why are there so many different viewpoints to choose from? Why isn't everything written in first person, or third, or omniscient? Because each viewpoint offers a different experience for readers, creating a strategic amount of distance between them and the characters. A story written in first … [Read more...] about Point of View, Part Deux: Which To Use
Evaluating Critique Feedback
So, you’ve mastered your anxiety and have placed your manuscript into the crittery waters of a new critique group. You wait, compulsively checking your inbox for the feedback to roll in. You’re excited, but a little scared, too. Will they laugh-out-loud where they’re supposed to, weep at the sheer … [Read more...] about Evaluating Critique Feedback